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 AberrationLens flaw that causes unsharp images. There are six types of aberrations: spherical, coma, astigmatism, curvature of field, distortion and chromatic.
AbsorptionOccurs when light is absorbed by a surface it hits and gets converted into heat waves.
Accessory shoeFitting to install accessories to a camera body; typically on top of the viewfinder, to attach a speedlight, a bubble level or any other accessory like a Nikon SC-17 or SC-19 flash cable.
AchromaticA lens system designed to reduce chromatic aberration, i.e. to render the same focal length for red and blue light wavelengths at the focal plane.
Action Finder (Action Viewfinder)An eye-level viewfinder allowing for complete view of the view field from a 2 to 3 inches distance; most convenient for fast moving objects and sports digital photography, as well as for detail copy work, making it less tiring.
AcutanceA measure of the sharpness with which the edge of an object can be depicted by a film or digital sensor.
AE (Auto Exposure)A system through which either the shutter speed or the lens aperture (semi-auto) or both (fully auto) are set automatically from the light meter. In high-end camera systems it is highly sophisticated; aided by a large data bank of different scenes to which the actual scene data is compared for highly improved accuracy, AE is virtually foolproof. Three types are available: Programmed Auto Exposure (P mode), where the camera sets both aperture and shutter speed; Aperture Priority AE, (A mode) when the user sets the aperture and the camera finds the most appropriate shutter speed; Shutter Priority AE (S mode), when the speed of the shutter is set by the user and the aperture by the camera.
AE LockA device to lock an Auto Exposure determined by the camera while the user recomposes.
AF (Autofocus)When applied to a lens, it is the ability of a lens to focus automatically on an object within its focusing sensors. AF Nikkor lenses were introduced in 1986. When on Auto bodies, there is no need to use the aperture ring in auto modes. They are AI-S lenses with a built-in CPU and motor for AF operation. When applied to a camera it means it is equipped with autofocus capability (a CAM module) to perform with an autofocus lens.
AF (Autofocus) Assist IlluminatorA device to provide additional illumination into a subject where there is total darkness or dim light or not enough contrast in it to perform Auto Focus. It can be set to automatically turn itself on when needed for fast operation.
AF-D lensNikkor lenses introduced in 1992. AF lenses with a CPU to relay distance information to the camera, most useful for ultra-precise TTL flash. Among the first were the 35-70mm f/2.8D AF and 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF.
AF-I lens Auto Focusing Internal Nikkor lenses. Introduced in 1992, the AF coreless integrated motor is inside the lens itself and not on the camera body, making for faster autofocusing in large high-end telephoto lenses. The first were the 300mm f/2.8 and the 600mm f/4, both D ED IF AF-I. These lenses are the predecessors of the AF-S type versions.
AF LockUsed to prevent autofocus operation once the subject is in focus, useful when recomposing an image maintaining the previously selected plane in focus.
AF SensorThe sensor used to detect focus in cameras equipped with autofocus operation.
AF-S lens Only applicable to Nikkor lenses that came to market in 1996 and after. These lenses focus witth their own built-in auto focusing ultrasonic Silent Wave engine, instead of the focus drive motor in the camera, making for lightning speed focus acquisition. Most useful for fast moving subjects. The first were the 300mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4 and 600mm f/4, all D ED IF AF-S lenses. AF-S lenses with a "II" designation weight less and are generally smaller than their equivalent predecessors.
AI lens Manual Nikkor lenses, produced from 1977 until mid 80s, introduced Automatic Maximum Aperture Indexing, designed to let the camera body know what is the maximum aperture of the mounted lens for metering. Non-AI lenses coupled to the camera's meter through a system that required a pin on the camera to be mated to a slotted prong on the lens before the lens was mounted, then the aperture ring on the lens had to be turned from one extreme to the other to index the meter to the maximum aperture of the lens. AI eliminates this entire procedure because meter coupling and indexing occur automatically when the lens is mounted on the camera. Most AI lenses made until a few years ago were also supplied with the coupling prong so they would be compatible with either metering system. With all-black barrel, rubber focusing ring and multicoated elements.
AI'd lens Non-AI or pre-AI manual Nikkor lenses, modified to make them AI lenses. The AI'ing process usually only involves replacing the aperture ring with an AI aperture ring that allows for coupling to the "meter coupling lever" found on some early bodies. Camera enthusiasts have reported some services also adding the "lens speed indexing post" as a further step.
AI-P lens Manual AI-S Nikkor lenses with a CPU that sends the lens information to the camera body for metering, allowing all AF bodies with CPU contacts in the mount to use these lenses in Program mode. The latest is the ultra compact Nikkor 45mm f/2.8 P "pancake", made to celebrate the FM3A and proving Nikon's loyalty to film and manual body users. Some services can add the chip to AI-S lenses to convert them into AI-P.
AI-S lens Manual Nikkor lenses introduced in late 1981, early 1982, with Aperture Indexing Shutter system for refinded meter coupling. Smallest aperture is orange (if not, then the lens is either AI or pre-AI). Most of these lenses have extraordinary optics, like the legendary 105mm f/2.5 AI-S. The diaphragm action in an AI-S lens is compatible with certain cameras that allow the aperture to be controlled from the camera, as is required for P programmed and S shutter-priority automatic exposure control. All AF-Nikkor lenses, as well as most manual-focus Nikkor lenses made since 1982, are AI-S.
Ambient LightThe natural light in a scene.
Angle of ViewIt is the extent of the view taken in by a lens. It is determined by the focal length of a lens and film format. A “standard” 50mm lens for 35mm film has an angle of view equal to the diagonal of the film, which is 70° horizontally and 58° vertically. A 135mm "short telephoto" lens has a reduced angle of view of 29° horizontally and 23° vertically.
Angle of Flash coverageThe angle of coverage for even, uniform, edge-to-edge illumination by a speedlight. Usually expressed in terms of focal length. To accomplish such evenness it should always be of a focal length smaller or equal to that of the lens mounted on the camera body while using the flash. When the necessary angle of flash coverage cannot be accomplished through zooming of the head of the speedlight, it is increased with a built-in wide angle adapter that pulls out and flips down in front of the flash head, or with a dome diffuser.
ApertureThe adjustable opening in a camera lens that -like an eye's iris- controls the amount of light that reaches the film or digital sensor. The size of such aperture is called the f-stop, like f/2.8
Aperture PriorityAperture Priority Auto Exposure, (A mode) when the user sets the aperture and the auto camera sets the most appropriate shutter speed. Most used mode as it is the appropriate for accurate depth of field control. Since the exposure decision is not entirely left to the camera's onboard computer, this is referred to as a semi-auto mode.
ApochromaticRefers to lenses designed to correct for chromatic (color) aberrations. Usually used in telephoto lenses that have large maximum apertures.
ArchivalThe ability of a material, including some printing papers and inks as well as digital compact and video discs, to last for many years.
ASAAbbreviation for American Standards Association (Now ANSI). In digital photography, Used in conjunction with a number, e.g., ASA 400, refers to film or sensor "speed" or sensitivity to light. The higher the number, the more sensitive the film/sensor, allowing for faster shutter speeds and/or smaller f/stops. The ASA scale has been replaced by the one from ISO (International Organization for Standardization), the scale numbers remain the same; e.g. ASA 100 = ISO 100 (See ISO for further explanation)
Aspherical (ASP) Not a continuous curve. Refers to non-spherical elements in lenses designed to compensate for distortion by having different curves on individual elements. Nikon introduced the first photographic lens with aspherical lens elements in 1968. Allows for more compact wide angle lenses, lighter and better performing than others with only spherical elements. When applied to Nikkor lenses the term implies excellent performance with absence of coma and other aberrations, even at their widest aperture.
AstigmatismCauses light rays from an off-axis point to form images at different positions.
Auto CameraA camera that can adjust the aperture and shutter speed automatically using data from its built-in exposure meter.
Auto FlashElectronic speedlight that automatically adjusts flash duration based on flash-to-subject distance relayed to it by the camera body.
Auto LensA lens with an automatic aperture diaphragm that can be kept wide open, at its widest aperture, until the shutter is released, regardless of the aperture setting for the exposure. Such a lens makes for a brighter viewfinder view and eases focusing with through-the-lens cameras. When the shutter is released, the aperture automatically stops down to its pre-set opening so that proper exposure is made, and instantaneously returns to its widest aperture. This lenses also allow for metering when wide open with a compatible camera with metering capability.
Available LightExisting light surrounding a subject; whether natural or artificial, but not added by the digital photographer, like with strobes or speedlights.
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B (Bulb)Setting for (long) time exposures beyond the normal shutter speeds. Under this setting the shutter will remain open for as long as the shutter release button is depressed.
BackdropThe background in a studio, usually made of cloth or paper.
BackgroundThe area behind a subject.
BacklightingLight coming from behind the digital photo subject. Can cause underexposure of the main subject with auto exposure systems. Situation lending itself to the use of fill-flash and/or spot metering.
BellowsAccordion-like device mounted on cameras that allows the lens to move towards or away from the film/sensor-plane for greater magnification than with the lens alone. Usually employed for close-up or macro work. Camera bellows are the PB-3, PB-4, PB-5 and the latest model PB-6 which can be extended further for higher magnification with the PB-6E extension bellows.
BitmapAn array of binary data representing a pixel by pixel (bit-mapped) image or display; also the image or display itself.
Bounce LightLight bounced into a reflective surface (a wall, a ceiling, a studio umbrella, a card) to illuminate a subject with softer light, reducing harsh shadows. The color of the reflective surface will determine the color of the light bounced into the subject.
BokeJapanese term, pronounced BO-KEH in English, used to describe the out of focus quality of a lens. Noun derived from the active verb "bokasu" which means to befog, to gradate, to render opaque, to smudge or render out of focus. It is usually the out of focus portions of the picture which distinguish the "look and feel" or "signature" of different types of lenses. The ideal boke for portraiture is a soft edged rounded blur with the brighter part towards the center of the blur disk.
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Classic boke is that of legendary lenses like the 105mm f/2.5 (click on image above) and 85mm f/1.4 Nikkor.
BokehSee "Boke" immediately above.
BlurUnsharp. Caused by excessive movement of the camera, a zoom lens or the subject. Also, excessive UV (ultra-violet) light that causes a bluish haze and loss of definition on distance objects, especially on B&W film. Blur is often intentional in creative digital photography to convey the feeling of motion.
BracketDevice that attaches to the camera tripod socket for accessories or to separate a speedlight from the camera, out of the hot shoe. Most useful for shadow control and red-eye elimination as it increases the angle between that of the flash beam axis and that of the lens.
BracketingPractice of making additional images varying exposure to insure accurate exposure of a given subject; e.g., additionally exposing "one stop under" and "one stop over." Automated feature in recent camera models.
Brightness(1) The amount of light reflected by a surface.
(2) The intensity or amount of light emitted by a light source.
(3) The luminance of a color.
BufferTemporary memory area that stores data before it is written into a permanent area. In digital cameras, the memory where images are stored before they are written to the memory card.
BulbShutter speed setting where the shutter stays open as long as the shutter release is depressed. Usually indicated by a B on the shutter speed selector.
BurningSelectively darkening part of areas in a digital photo while in traditional printing or with an image editing program.
BSNo, it does not refer to the advertising of other camera brands. It refers to the British System developed by the British Institute of Standards, for photographic film speed or sensitivity; using the same scale as the ASA system, now both replaced by the ISO.
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Cable ReleaseA flexible cable device for releasing the shutter. Usually used for slow shutter speeds when the camera must remain absolutely still. A must for ultra sharp images.
CartridgeA light-proof film container, usually made of metal. It is often called "magazine" or "cassette".
CatchlightThe reflection of a light source in the eyes of a subject. It makes for more pleasing portraits. Usually provided by the use of fill-flash.
CCD (Charged Coupled Device)A semiconductor device that is used especially as an optical sensor and that stores charge and transfers it sequentially to an amplifier and detector; also called CCD, used in digital cameras to capture an image.
CC (Color Compensating) FilterEnables fine adjustments to color tone or color density in color digital photography. Most CC filters are made of gel and come in six colors: C (Cyan), M (Magenta), Y (Yellow), B (Blue), G (Green) and R (red).
CD-RCD-Recordable. A compact disc that holds either 650 or 700 MB of digital information, including digital photos. Creating one is commonly referred to as burning a CD. A CD-R disc can only be written to once, and is an ideal storage medium for original digital photos.
CD-RWCD-Rewritable. A compact disc that holds either 650 or 700 MB of digital information, including digital photos, like the CD-R, except that a CD-RW disc can be written and erased many times. Best suited for backup tasks, but not for long term storage of original digital photos.
C-W (Center-Weighted) Fill-FlashFill-Flash technique using Center-Weighted metering, recommended for ambient light control for a subject in the center of the frame. One of the many pioneering technology advances, whereby the burst request made to the speedlight is based on a balanced exposure between the ambient light surrounding the subject and the light provided by the flash without making the latter noticeable. Precise ambient exposure control is achieved by pointing the meter into different brightness areas and making the selection of choice, or through camera and/or flash EV compensation.
C-W (Center-Weighted) MeteringA center-biased metering method. In high-end cameras, the bias is variable. In the F5 for example, through Custom Setting 14 the circle of highest meter sensitivity (75%) can be changed from 12mm to 8, 15 or 20mm diameter. Before advanced Matrix Metering was introduced in 1988 on the N8008/F801, much improved over that on the FA, all cameras with meter had a Center-Weighted one.
Chromatic AberrationCaused by the differences in refraction of the colored rays of the spectrum. It is "axial" when light rays pass through a lens cause the lens to focus at different points, depending on the light wavelength. It is "lateral" or "transverse" when the magnification varies depending on the light wavelength. It creates blur.
CibachromeUnique color printing system, directly from color transparencies, not from an internegative, developed by Ciba-Geigy Photochemie of Switzerland and Ilford of the UK in the early 60s. With stunning sharpness, color intensity, clean whites, and critical accuracy to the original slide, Cibachrome prints made on a dimensionally stable tri-acetate polyester base, not paper; are archival, will not fade, discolor or deteriorate for a very long time. When Ilford was acquired by International Paper in 1989, Ciba-Geigy required the name changed. So it is now officially called Ilfochrome, but its fans keep calling it Cibachrome.
Circle of ConfusionThe circle of confusion has nothing to do with other camera brand users. It is the largest on-film/sensor circle that you can see as a well defined point on an 8×10 print when viewed at from a "normal" viewing distance of 2 to 3 feet. Anything larger is seen as a small circle, not a point and is therefore perceived as out of focus. For 35mm film format the diameter of such point or circle is 0.02501mm, commonly rounded to 0.03mm for hyperfocal distance computations. For APS-C (DX) digital cameras sensors, the CoC is 0.020
Circular PolarizerA digital photographic filter designed to eliminate reflections from glass and water, including water in foliage, to intensify the color of the sky and color saturation in general. A circular polarizer does not interfere with the AF or the Metering systems of auto cameras like a linear polarizer would typically do.
Close-upA digital photo or video or movie shot taken at close range filling the frame. Magnification ratios of a close-up typically vary from 1:10 to 1:1 (life-size).
Close-up Attachment LensA convenient and economical way to enter close-up digital photography. Attached to the front of a lens its magnification ratio ability is increased by shortening the focusing distance. 0, 1, 2, 3T, 4T for 52mm diameter lenses; and 5T & 6T for 62mm, are the Camera close-up lenses available. Also called close-up "filters".
CRC (Close Range Correction System)One of the many pioneering efforts that provides superior picture quality at close focusing distances and increases the focusing range of a lens. Through “Floating Element” designs -wherein each lens group moves independently to achieve focusing- CRC enables selected Nikkor lenses to provide comparable performance at both very near and very far focusing distances. For fisheye and wide angle lenses, CRC allows for most interesting perspectives. A most impressive example of a lens with this feature is the AF-S 17-35mm f/2.8D ED IF Zoom Nikkor.
CMYKAcronym for Cyan (process Blue), Magenta (process Red), Yellow and Black, the primary colors of ink used in professional printing process to which Black is added for enhancement or for true Black. Not to be confused with the primary colors of light which are Red, Green and Blue (RGB).
ColorThe appearance of objects (or light sources) described in terms of a person's perception of their hue and lightness (or brightness) and saturation.
Color TemperatureThe temperature at which a blackbody emits radiant energy competent to evoke a color the same as that evoked by radiant energy from a given source (as a lamp). Measured in Kelvin degrees (K), important to digital photographers to understand how light changes and film records it and to filter it to fit the film in use. In digital photography the light conversions/adjustments can be made via software. Average noon daylight has a color temperature of 5500K. A common tungsten house light bulb has a color temperature of 2800K. Tungsten studio lamps 3200K and digital photo lamps or digital photofloods 3400K.
Color (Temperature) Conversion FilterConverts the color temperature of the light source as it goes through it to fit the film in use. For example, a dark blue B12 filter makes it possible to use daylight balanced film with tungsten studio lamps, changing the light temperature from 3200K to 5500K. In digital photography the light color conversion filters effect can be added via software.
ComaAberration where light rays pass through an off-axis point causing the lens to focus at different points causing blur.
Compact CameraA Point-and-Shoot camera (P&S). Convenient in size, smaller than a SLR camera, lacking advanced features.
CompactFlash™ CardTrademark name for one type of digital camera's re-usable memory card on which images taken by the camera are stored. Available in a wide range of storage capacity and recording speeds.
Continuous Servo AFUsed to allow the camera to continue focusing as long as the shutter release is slightly pressed. This allows an AF camera to take a picture even if the picture is not in focus. Used for making images of fast moving subjects. AF mode "C".
Contrast Control FilterFilters used in black and white digital photography to emphasize contrast in various degrees. There are six major types: Y (Yellow), Y/G (Yellow/Green), G (Green), O (Orange), R (Red) and the not so frequently used B (Blue), for portraits, to strengthen skin tones and bring out more detail in faces. Contrast filters improve the separation of tones. The deeper colored the filter the more pronounced the contrast effect.
ContrastThe apparent difference in brightness between lightest and darkest areas of an image. Usually refers to the gradation between black and white. Fewer gray values are described as "high contrast." Many shades of gray is low contrast.
Continuous Servo AFEspecially useful AF mode when focus tracking fast moving subjects. Under this mode you can fire at any time. As long as the shutter is half-depressed the AF module will keep a subject in focus and make calculations as to its position at the moment of firing.
Convertible LensA multi-piece lens. The pieces assemble or disassemble to form different focal lengths.
CopyrightA form of protection provided by the laws of the United States (title 17, U.S. Code), and other countries, to the authors of "original works of authorship," including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works. This protection is available to both published and unpublished works. Section 106 of the 1976 US Copyright Act generally gives the owner of copyright the exclusive right to do and to authorize others to reproduce, distribute, perform the work, and/or display. These laws are similar in all countries. Laws regarding ownership of images or written material.
CropEnlargement of an image with sections removed to improve its composition.
Curvature of FieldWhere light rays passing through a lens causing the lens to focus on a curved plane versus a flat plane. This causes out-of-focus pictures.
CurvesAn Adobe digital photoshop functionality that allows to adjust the tonal range of a digitized image. From basic adjustments in shadows, highlights and mid tones, to sophisticated adjustments at any point within a 256 (from 0 to 255) tonal range of the entire image or precise adjustments to the individual color channels of an image.
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DataFactual piece of information (as measurements or statistics) used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculation. Information output by a sensing device or organ, it includes both useful and irrelevant or redundant pieces of information that must be processed to be meaningful in a decision making process. Information in numerical form that can be digitally transmitted and/or processed. "Don't confuse me with the data, give me information to make decisions".
DaylightAmbient light with a color temperature of 5500K. Direct sunlight on a bright day, at noon time, combined with the reflected light from the sky, produce natural ambient light.
Daylight-Type filmA film designed to render a natural, correct color balance when exposed in daylight.
D chipRelays distance information from a Nikkor or Nikon-D-compatible lens into a digital camera body that features 3D Color Matrix Metering, 3D Matrix Metering, and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, body which in turns relays it -after processing it with metering data- to a digital camera speedlight for ultra-precise fill-flash.
DC (Defocus Control)Unique ability of a Nikkor lens to alter the shape of its out of focus areas, both foreground and background via aberration management, like in the Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D DC AF and 135mm f/2D DC AF. This feature creates splendid boke. When the DC control ring is set to 0, the lens functions as a non-DC lens.
DefinitionSharpness of an image (as seen by the clarity of detail) formed by an optical system.
D-Type LensesDesignation used by Nikon Corporation to identify a Nikkor lens that supplies distance to subject information to an AF camera, most useful for ultra-precise TTL and Balanced TTL flash. AF lenses with a D chip. These Nikkor lenses were introduced in 1992. Among the first were the 35-70mm f/2.8D AF and 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF. Nikkor G-Type lenses are D-Type lenses too.
DarkclothDark material used to cover the digital photographer's head and the ground-glass-viewing screen on large format cameras.
Darkroom"Dark," light-tight space for processing and printing digital photographic materials.
DarkslideThin, flat piece of metal or plastic, which protects unprocessed film from light exposure.
Dedicated FlashElectronic flash designed to work with the meter and exposure system of a specific camera.
DensityThe amount or "density" of silver on an exposed and processed piece of film.
Depth of Field (DOF)The distance between the farthest and nearest points which are in focus. This can also be identified as the zone of acceptable sharpness in front of and behind the subject, to which the lens is focused on. DOF varies according to numerous factors such as lens focal length, aperture, shooting distance, etc.
Depth of Field Preview ButtonWhen actioned, it closes down the aperture of an auto lens to that of the selected exposure, allowing (a darkened) view of the depth of field through the viewfinder.
DeveloperChemical that converts silver on film to visible, black image.
DiaphragmAnother word for aperture. Can also be a type of shutter. Refer to Leaf Shutter.
DiffractionBounced light. Light "refracts" off opaque materials softening and blurring an image.
DiffuserMaterial that softens and "diffuses" light in order to soften the edges in an image.
DigitalA device or system which can be stored and processed, where the use and representation of on/off impulses translates into 0/1 data called bits.
Digital CameraA camera that captures an image through the lens but instead of on film, it does it on an an electronic image sensor, a CCD (Charged Coupled Device); then temporarily transferred into a FlashCard™ for eventual download into a computer.
DigitizationTransformation of analog data into digital data for computer storage and processing.
DINStands for Deutsches Institut für Normung, the German Institute for Standardization. Founded in 1917, since 1975 it has been recognized by the German government as the national standards body and represents German interests at international and European standards circles. DIN is a logarithmic expression while ASA is an arithmetic one. An ISO 100 film has a DIN rating of 21; an ISO 200 film has a DIN rating of 24. The DIN number is equal to 10 times log ISO + 1 and the ISO number is equal to antilog of (DIN - 1 divided by 10), e.g. for ISO 200, log 200 equals 2.3, times 10 = 23, 23 + 1 = 24 DIN
DiopterAn optical unit of measure of the refractive power of a lens, the reciprocal of its focal length.
DiscAn optical storage device. e.g. a CD-ROM.
DiskA magnetic storage device. e.g. a computer hard disk
DispersionWhere light rays deviate by different wavelengths, causing a light spectrum, or rainbow.
Distance InformationAs provided by the D chip on D-type lenses, relayed to the camera for processing for ultra-precise speedlight exposures on AF digital camera auto bodies.
DistortionWhere straight lines are not rendered perfectly straight in a digital photo. Two types of distortion exist: barrel and pincushion.
DodgingSelectively lightening part of a digital photo, either on an enlarger for traditional film printing or with an image editing program. The opposite to "Burning".
DownloadOr downloading, the process of transferring computer data from one location to another, as examples: files from Internet into a computer, or digital images from the camera's memory card into a computer.
DPIDots per Inch. As applicable to the resolution of a printer, the number of dots it can print per inch. Erroneously it is also applied to scanners and digital cameras instead of PPI (Pixels Per Inch), as if a dot would be equivalent to a pixel. The higher the number, the higher the resolution.
DX CodingType of bar coding on film cartridges used to electronically communicate film speed to a camera with reading contacts for it.
DX lensesIntroduced in 2003. Nikkor G, slightly lighter and smaller lenses, designed to fill the smaller frame of the DX (APS-C) Format sensor size used in Digital series SLR cameras. The first was the AF-S DX 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED. Ideal for landscape digital photographers.
Dynamic AF Camera advanced feature mode, intended to be used with Continuous (C) Servo AF and Continuous film advance for tracking moving subjects in advanced camera models. As soon as you half depress the shutter release button the AF locks onto the subject within the primary (pre-selected) focusing area. Even if the subject moves out of the selected focusing area, the AF will continue to lock on it as the nearest focusing area takes over since the camera has been not just focusing but also computing the subject's speed and motion direction. Even if the subject gets obscured by some other object, the F5 will not loose track as it is anticipating the subject's location. This feature has been rated to follow up to 20mm per second across the film plane, the equivalent of this with a 300mm lens is a subject moving at 300 kmph (186.5 mph) up to a distance of approximately 20 meters (61 feet). As Gunther Richter wrote in the Magic Lantern Guide for the F5: "Now, try that with any other camera!"
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ED (Extra Low Dispersion) Glass A glass developed and trademarked by Nikon Corporation, used in telephoto lenses to offer superior sharpness and color correction by minimizing chromatic aberration. These lenses are resistant to temperature changes, preventing focus shift problems in lenses that use calcium fluorite crystal elements. Fluorite cracks easily and is sensitive to temperature changes that can adversely affect focusing by altering the lens’ refractive index. Super ED glass is a new type, used together with ED glass in some lenses achieves an even higher degree of freedom from chromatic aberration.
ED lensA Nikkor lens having at least one ED element in its optical formula, improving sharpness.
EmulsionThe light sensitive, chemically active surface on digital photographic film and paper.
EnlargementA digital photographic print made by "enlarging" an image from a piece of film.
EVExposure Value. A number representing equivalent shutter speeds and lens apertures combinations for the same exposure, given a scene brightness. At ISO 100, 0 represents (f/1.0 at 1 sec); 1 = (f/1.4 at 1 sec) or (f/1.0 at 1/2 sec); 2 = (f/2.0 at 1 sec) or (f/1.4 at 1/2 sec) or (f/1.0 at 1/4 sec) and so on. For a fixed aperture, as the EV increases 1, the shutter speed increases one step; for fixed shutters speeds, as the EV increases 1, aperture decreases one f/stop. Long exposures are for (or have) negative EV. A light meter sensitivity is usually defined as having the capacity to read an EV range for a given ISO speed.
EXIFExchangeable Image File: the file format used by most digital cameras. For example, when a typical camera is set to record a JPEG, it’s actually recording an EXIF file that uses JPEG compression to compress the digital photo data within the file.
ExposureThe amount of light that reaches a film frame or a digital sensor or the combination of f-stop (light intensity) and shutter speed (duration) that controls the amount of light reaching the film or sensor. Also used to describe an exposed piece of film.
Exposure CompensationDeliberately changing the exposure settings recommended by a light meter in order to obtain a different exposure to better fit personal preferences, create special effects or meet special requirements.
Exposure FactorA multiplier for the exposure increase required when the light reaching the film is decreased from either increasing the distance between the lens and the film (as with extension tubes and bellows) or when a filter is attached. Users with cameras with TTL meters need not to be concerned about correction for filters.
Extension RingsRings used to extend the distance between lens and film/sensor for macro or close-up work (One or several for various magnification ratios). Current Camera extension rings are the PK11A (8mm), PK12A (14mm), PK13A (27.5mm). Sometimes also called Extension Tubes.
External FlashA supplementary flash unit (speedlight) that connects to the camera via the hotshoe or a cable, or is triggered by the light from the camera’s internal built-in flash. For fun, creative effects and better lighting, usually with longer reach than a built-in unit.
Eyepiece Correction LensAttaches to the viewfinder eyepiece to correct for eyesight deficiencies. High-end cameras have a built-in diopter correction.
Eyepiece magnifierAn optical device that attaches to the eyepiece for increased magnification; useful for close-up or macro work and/or when manual focusing for fine detail is chosen.
Eyepiece shutterA blind that blocks the eyepiece to prevent light to come into the viewfinder, altering correct measurements of the light meter when using the self-timer or at any time when the digital photographer is not there to block such light.
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Fast FilmA film with high sensitivity to light, needing less light for proper exposure. Recommended for action and low-light light digital photography. Term normally applied to films with ISO 400 and higher.
Fast LensA lens with a maximum wide aperture (f/1.4, f/2, f/2.8) allowing it to gather more light than a "slow lens" which has a less wide maximum aperture (f/3.5, f/4 and smaller).
File FormatA program or data file type such as JPEG, PSD, TIFF, PDF, PICT, EPS
FilmPhotosensitive material used in a camera to record an image. Made from a thin, transparent base coated with light sensitive chemicals.
Film/Frame Advance ModeFound in cameras with a built-in motor drive. It is Single-frame when a single frame is advanced, one at the time, each time the shutter is released. It is Continuous-framing when the film/sensor frame continuously advances as long as the shutter button is depressed, taking pictures until the button is not any longer depressed or the film roll reaches its end or the digital camera buffer is full, or the memory card is full.
Fill-FlashFlash that is used to supplement ambient light to fill shadow areas in a subject with light, thereby reducing contrast. Technique also known as “flash fill” and “fill-in flash.” To make it look natural, Cmaeras offer Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash, where ambient light and flash light are in complete balance.
FilterTransparent lens attachment used to modify the light coming into a lens, to change the color, or other characteristics of an image. They are used both on the camera and in the darkroom.
Filter Adapter RingUsed to accommodate larger diameter filters on a smaller diameter lens. Also known as step-up rings. Useful to reduce the number of filter sets needed when using different diameter lenses.
FireWire®Fast data transfer bus developed by Apple, capable of transmitting data at 400Mbps, also known as IEEE 1394.
Fisheye LensSuper wide angle lens. Angle of view can approach 180 degrees. Nearly infinite depth-of-field.
Fixed Focal LengthA camera with a non-removable, non-zoom lens with unchangeable focal length.
A prime lens.
FlareReflected light; from lens elements, sun, metal, etc. Appears as non-uniform haze or bright spots on the film or digital frame, often taking the shape of the aperture, generally caused from shooting towards the light source. The use of uncoated filters makes a lens more prone to flare; often results in an overall reduction of image contrast. The always-on use of a lens shade is also recommended.
FlashArtificial light source. Usually camera-mounted speedlights (like the SB-28, SB-80DX) but also larger studio models called strobes.
Flash BracketingFeature available in TTL Auto Flash shooting, allowing for bracketed exposures varying flash output without changing aperture nor shutter speed.
Flash CardMemory device capable of holding data after the system is turned off.
Flash CompensationA control on a speedlight and a method to reduce or augment the flash output from a flash to lighten or darken the flash effect.
Flash DurationThe duration of a flash burst from a speedlight, used to vary flash output, typically from 1/1000 to 1/20,000 of a second in contemporary units under auto flash modes.
Flash RangeThe distance range within which a flash is capable of rendering well illuminated subjects for proper exposure. The range is a function of both the maximum and minimum flash output capability of the unit and the aperture selected, whether automatically or manually, in turn also affected by the ISO speed in use.
Flash Sync (Synchronization)The shutter speed that corresponds to the proper timing of the flash. Any faster and the shutter won't be open for the duration of the flash. Any shorter and subject movement might cause blur.
Flexible ProgramA function enabling the possible change of equivalent correct exposure values under Programmed Auto Exposure Mode, to either increase/decrease shutter speed or aperture.
Flood LampPhoto lamps used for wider areas. The industry standards are of a color temperature of around 3400K, and cooler lamps with a temperature around 3200K.
F NumbersNumbers on the outside of the lens corresponding to the aperture opening. The larger the number (e.g., f/22 also expressed as F 22), the smaller the opening of the lens; the smaller the number (e.g., f/2.8) the larger the opening of the lens.
Focal LengthThe distance between the back lens element and the focal plane. In 35mm format, lenses with a focal length of approximately 50mm are called normal (standard), lenses with approximately 35mm or less are called wide-angle, and lenses with a focal length of more than approximately 70mm are called telephoto lenses.
Focal PlaneThe area of the camera where the lens focuses on the film or digital sensor.
Focal Plane ShutterA shutter placed just off the surface of the focal plane. Typical shutter type for 35mm SLR cameras.
Focal PointThe point on the optical axis where light rays form a sharp image of a subject. An ideal lens would allow light rays to diverge from a subject parallel to the optical axis and converge to a point when they pass through the lens.
FocusTo move the lens, or film or digital sensor, in relation to the focal plane in order to record a sharp image on the film/sensor. (Can't forget Contax where the film actually moves for AF operation versus the lens.)
Focus ModeThree basic types of focus modes exist for AF cameras: Single servo AF (S), Continuous servo AF (C) and Manual AF (M).
Focus PriorityA mode where the shutter cannot be released until the subject is in focus, as when using Single servo AF (S).
Focusing ScreenRefers to Ground Glass. Usually on large format cameras, a piece of frosted glass at the focal plane where the lens projects an image that can be used for focusing and composition.
Focusing StageA camera mount that allows it to slide along a rail for critical macro digital photography focusing. Like the Nikon PG-2. Use it on a solid tripod.
Focus TrackingAdvanced feature through which a camera's microprocessor (computer) analyzes a moving subject's speed, anticipates the position of the subject at the exact moment of exposure, and focuses the lens based on this information.
ForegroundThe area before the subject, in between the camera and the subject.
FormatCan mean either the size of the camera or the size of the film or sensor. For camera, sizes there are APS, 35mm, medium and large format. For film format there is APS, 35mm, 645, 6x6, 6x7, 6x9, 4x5, 5x7, 8x10, etc. In digital photography, DX, 35mm size, 645 and 6x6.
f-NumberA scale used to express the relative area of the aperture of a lens, simply the result of dividing the focal length of a lens by the effective aperture of the lens opening (the apparent size of the diaphragm seen from the front of the lens). The f-number increases by the multiple of the square root of 2, or 1.4142, from 1.0, 1.4, 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8, 11 and so on, allowing each to pass half the light of the aperture below and twice the light of the aperture above in the scale.
FP High Speed SyncFeature allowing for flash photography at sync speeds higher than the maximum sync speed under normal flash use. Accomplished by multiple flash bursts with moderate output, but uniformly on the film or sensor frame as the shutter travels in front of the frame. Recommended for action photography where high shutter speeds are required or for fill-flash images outdoors at wide apertures.
Front Curtain SyncStandard sync mode where the flash fires immediately after the shutter's front curtain begins its travel across the film/sensor plane. The opposite is Rear Curtain Sync.
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